MOUSE Leukemia Inhibitory Factor, or mLIF, is a lymphoid factor involved in a number of biological processes including neural and hematopoietic cell differentiation, bone and fat metabolism, and mitogenesis of some factor-dependent cell lines. It has effects on different cell types in vitro, inhibiting the differentiation of embryonic stem cells and promoting the survival and/or proliferation of primitive hematopoietic precursors and primordial germ cells.
Mouse leukemia inhibitory factor, mLIF, is functionally tested with mouse ES cells
Amsbio, which has added mLIF to its range of stem cell research products, says the properties of this protein make it essential for culturing stem cells, enabling the long-term maintenance and propagation of undifferentiated mouse embryonic and induced pluripotent cells.
Each batch of mLIF is analysed for purity, ensuring very low endotoxin levels and the absence of pyrogenic and pro-inflammatory contaminants, says the company. Each batch is tested on mouse ES cells for plating efficiency, colony formation, morphology, and maintenance of the undifferentiated state.
The product’s name joins a select group of laboratory-related terms, including for example the Large Hadron Collider, which demand extra care when spelling to avoid possible embarrassment.